Get an eco-friendly bathroom makeover

Between the frequent water use and prevalence of chemical-based products, your bathroom is a great candidate for a green makeover. A few simple, inexpensive steps can make a tremendous difference.

Increase your water efficiency

… in the shower

About 17 percent of the water a household consumes flows through the shower. Installing a high-efficiency showerhead can save 2,300 gallons a year, plus enough energy to power your television, according to federal figures. Today’s low-flow showerheads can use 30 percent less water, yet still deliver a high-pressure spray. The federal government implemented rules for more water-efficient showerheads in 1992. If your fixtures are older, you may want to consider switching them out. Oxygenics and Niagara Earth brands have earned high marks from consumers.

… in the sink

New water-efficient faucets combine conscientious water flow and a variety of designs and styles. Alternately, an aerator costs just a few dollars and can reduce your water flow to a half-gallon per minute. Look for aerators from Niagara Conservation, SaveWaterUs and AM Conservation Group.

… in the toilet

Toilets made before 1995 use 3 to 7 gallons of water per flush instead of the modern guideline of 1.6 gallons or less. Flushing toilets accounts for about 30 percent of our household’s water usage. Even if your toilet meets these new guidelines, consider water-efficient toilets that beat the federal standards by 20 percent. So-called “low-flow” toilets can shave $90 off annual utility bills.

Embrace natural cleaning and grooming products

From shampooing your hair to removing soap scum from shower walls, most bathrooms contain an array of products. Assess your medicine cabinet and cleaning products and swap in green alternatives wherever possible. Brands like Method and Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day are popular, but borax, baking soda and white vinegar also work. Face, hair and body products made with responsible methods and natural ingredients are increasingly available. Look for Aveda and Origins brands in department stores and salons. At the grocery store or drugstore, try Burt’s Bees and Kiss My Face products.

Get new towels

Swap out your towels, bathrobe and even your bath mat for versions made from bamboo or organic cotton. These products are just as soft and absorbent but are made with sustainable materials and without harmful pesticides. Many high-end towels also use natural dyes and softeners rather than chemical-based alternatives. When buying new towels, find out as much information as possible about the manufacturing process to make sure your purchases are truly green.